These are the principles that emerged from research I did on my leadership style.
Below are a collection of core ideas and themes I’ve coached to over the years. Some are wrapped in homemade names and acronyms like MBS. When I built this site in early 2024, I reached out to dozens of former teammates and asked what it was actually like to work with me. These are themes kept coming back. They aren’t redundant but they’re very adjacent themes.
I don’t expect them to stay frozen in time. Notably I don’t like how I originally wrote some of them (I am in a lifelong fight with not speaking in business jargon). So as I grow, these principles might evolve a little. That’s ok. Change is good. :)
Each principle here has a lot of stories behind it, and when it hits me I include the names of people and books that have helped me learn the lesson along the way.
If anything here hits home, double-click to dig in. Or better yet, let’s talk. I never pass up a good chat about leadership.
Maintain A No Drama Policy
Engaging directly with someone is not just about respect; it's the cornerstone of effective communication and trust, far more valuable than gossip
API - Assume Positive Intent
In any interaction, assuming positive intent is the bridge that connects misunderstanding to meaningful connection
Be “Confidently Humble”
Staying humble keeps our minds open to learning from anyone, anywhere, at any time.
Polish Your Diamonds
Investing in those with untapped potential is like polishing diamonds in the rough; you uncover brilliance others might overlook.
Execution Is Strategy, One Step at a Time
In the pursuit of any goal, focus on the small steps. Every meaningful stride achieved toward a goal lays the path to a happier journey and a bigger impact.
Integrity Is the Long Game
Trust compounds, and people remember who shows up consistently.
Authenticity begets Authenticity
Authentic leadership creates an environment. that sparks a chain reaction of genuine connections and true selves.
Be the lighthouse, not the light*
As a leader, your role is to illuminate your team's success, keeping the spotlight on their accomplishments, not your contributions.
Orbit that Hairball*
The best leaders blend unwavering commitment to the company's mission and values with a drive to push it into new, uncharted territories.